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OnePlus is making a considerable change with its Android 16 update which will require users to fill out an application before having the ability to unlock their bootloader.<\/p>\n
In a post this week<\/a>, OnePlus explains that its smartphones will now require its users in China to apply for permission to unlock the bootloader on their device.<\/p>\n OnePlus explains:<\/p>\n To ensure device and data security and enhance system stability, we will adjust the bootloader unlocking method in ColorOS 16. Developers and users with specific needs who fully understand and can assume the risks of unlocking and flashing can apply to join the in-depth testing program through official channels.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The post goes on to explain that the user\u2019s OnePlus account \u201chas no abnormalities or violations.\u201d The change only kicks in for devices sold in China and won\u2019t affect any prior versions of ColorOS. <\/p>\n \tAdvertisement – scroll for more content<\/p>\n Notably, OnePlus already has a similar process in place for devices sold in the US under T-Mobile<\/a>, but unlocked devices are generally able to have their bootloader unlocked without any additional fuss. In developer options, the \u201cOEM Unlocking\u201d toggle readily appears.<\/p>\n OnePlus hasn\u2019t widely rolled out its Android 16 update just yet, so it\u2019s hard to know if this new bootloader unlock requirement will expand beyond China, but OnePlus isn\u2019t alone in locking things down in this regard. Xiaomi has been tighter <\/a>around bootloader unlock recently, and Samsung also recently started removing the option for bootloader unlock<\/a> with its One UI 8 \/ Android 16 update.<\/p>\n More on OnePlus:<\/p>\n Follow Ben:<\/strong>\u00a0Twitter\/X<\/a>,\u00a0Threads<\/a>, Bluesky<\/a>, and\u00a0Instagram<\/a><\/p>\n FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.<\/a><\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\n